Meaning: The quote "Party action should follow, not precede the creation of a dominant popular sentiment" by Judith Foster Activist encapsulates the idea that political parties and movements should not act in isolation or attempt to force change before the majority of the population is ready for it. Instead, they should be responsive to and reflective of the prevailing sentiment among the general public. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning with the attitudes, beliefs, and values of the broader population before attempting to enact significant change or push for specific policies.

In essence, the quote suggests that successful political action and social change are most likely to occur when they are in harmony with the prevailing popular sentiment. This aligns with the concept of grassroots movements and the idea that meaningful change often arises from the bottom up, driven by the collective will of the people.

The notion that party action should follow rather than precede the creation of a dominant popular sentiment speaks to the importance of genuine public support and engagement in the decision-making process. It acknowledges that attempts to impose change from the top down, without genuine popular backing, are likely to be met with resistance or fail to achieve lasting impact.

This perspective also highlights the need for political parties and activists to engage in meaningful dialogue with the public, actively listen to their concerns, and work to build consensus around issues before attempting to enact change. It underscores the importance of building a broad-based coalition of support and fostering a sense of shared ownership over the direction of political and social movements.

Furthermore, the quote encourages political actors to be attentive to shifts in public sentiment and responsive to evolving social attitudes. By remaining attuned to the changing views and priorities of the populace, political parties and activists can adapt their strategies and platforms to align with the prevailing sentiment, thereby increasing their relevance and effectiveness.

In practical terms, this approach may involve conducting thorough public opinion research, engaging in community outreach and organizing, and actively seeking input from a diverse range of stakeholders. It also underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in political leadership and advocacy efforts.

Judith Foster, the activist who is attributed with this quote, likely drew upon her experiences in grassroots organizing and political activism to articulate this perspective. Her work may have involved mobilizing communities, advocating for social justice, and working to build consensus around important issues. Through her advocacy and organizing efforts, Foster likely recognized the power of aligning political action with the prevailing sentiment of the broader population.

In conclusion, the quote "Party action should follow, not precede the creation of a dominant popular sentiment" reflects a commitment to inclusive, participatory, and responsive political action. It underscores the importance of building support from the ground up, engaging with the public, and aligning political agendas with the prevailing sentiment of the broader population. This approach emphasizes the need for political parties and activists to be attentive to public attitudes, seek genuine consensus, and work collaboratively to enact meaningful change.